A very old seated statuette, most probably used as a drumhead, the focal point of M'bembe village rituals. The erosion of the wood and the position of the figure (and the remnants of pigments) bear witness to the venerable age and numerous rituals to which this work, which was exhibited in the center of the village, was subjected over several generations, confirming its origin and nature. M'bembe, Nigeria Hardwood, very significant oxidation and erosion from age, visible old missing parts, beautiful patina from use and ritual. Height: 36cm Provenance: Edward Klejman, Paris Marceau Rivière, Paris Enchères Rive Gauche, Paris, September 8, 2011, n°101 Stéphane Kurc Collection, Paris Publication: Rivière, Les chefs d'œuvre africains des collections privées françaises, 1975, p.94